Spring is on its way. If you want to get a head start on the season, and push away winter's doldrums, then these five projects have your name on them. Plants will blossom, leaves will bud, warm days will bring that sweet smell of fresh air and grass back. Streams will fill up with water, and the sounds of birds will reemerge. Even if the weather is still chilly and the trees are still bare where you live, you can make your house feel like spring.

1. Spring cleaning: Getting rid of winter's dust is hard work, but it really can refresh your house. Whether you do a deep cleaning, or you just give the place a good tidying up, spring cleaning is an excellent way to bid winter goodbye as you welcome in the unfettered days of spring and summer. Read our guide to easy and efficient spring cleaning.

2. Put up a spring mantel display: Is your mantel still covered in pine garlands and red candles? It's time to change it up. Bring spring into your living room by creating a totally spring-centric mantel display. See inspiration for spring mantel displays.

4. Start an herb garden: There might not be leaves on the trees yet, but adding some green plants to your house will bring spring indoors. Pep up your house with a small indoor garden. Herbs like rosemary and basil are easy to grow, and are edible, too. Get ideas for container herb gardens.